Pies's big-name recruit makes successful return from injury

COLLINGWOOD'S prized recruit Daniel Wells made a successful return from a lingering calf injury in Saturday's thrilling two-point win over Coburg at Coburg City Oval.

The 32-year-old is likely to press to make his AFL debut as a Pie for Tuesday week's Anzac Day clash against Essendon.

While it wasn't a dominant display from Wells, he showed poise and class when required and - perhaps more importantly - got through his return game unscathed, playing 80 per cent game time.

Whether the club opts to roll the dice with Wells or give him another game in the VFL - against Essendon at Windy Hill next Sunday - the former Roo said he was just "happy to be playing finally".

"We'll just get through this game, recover from it and it all depends on how the senior team goes tomorrow. We've got a bit of time to reassess. It's been a long time since I've played," Wells said after the match.

"I'm happy to be out here and I'm rapt with the win too.

"I'm really enjoying it (at Collingwood). It's a good young group of players as you seen today. I was just happy to help out in some way or another and hopefully the boys get the job done tomorrow."

The veteran signed a three-year deal, reportedly worth $1.8 million after crossing to the Pies at the end of last season as an unrestricted free agent.

While Wells has been injury-plagued during his career with a persistent calf injury, he returned to peak form last season, playing 19 matches for the Roos, including the elimination final loss.